Iloilo city: The Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC) has signed a contract with Sweco International AB consultancy services for a feasibility study on the Metro Iloilo Integrated Public Transport System. Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Tre±as, chairperson of MIGEDC, and Project Urban/Regional Planner Alexander Cochrane, representing Sweco, signed the agreement in a ceremony at the city hall penthouse on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the study will serve as a master plan or 'indicative plan' for public transport in Metro Iloilo towns, including Pavia, Sta. Barbara, Cabatuan, Leganes, Oton, San Miguel and Iloilo City, as well as Guimaras province. The consultancy services will also identify the phased implementation of the integrated public transport network plan. It aims to determine the integration of existing urban bus transport with proposed future modern public transport routes and possible bus rapid transit corridors by utilizing existing transport assets.

The study may also explore the role of other modes of existing transport and suggest investments in additional transport and infrastructure. The project is funded by a grant of 6 million Swedish Krona (approximately PHP33 million) from Swedfund International, Sweden's development finance institution.

Mayor Tre±as emphasized that the project is an investment in the future of Metro Iloilo. She highlighted the benefits, including streamlined routes, improved connectivity, and modernized transport services. The integrated system is expected to ease traffic for commuters, strengthen economic competitiveness, reduce environmental impacts, and improve the overall quality of life in Metro Iloilo.

MIGEDC Executive Director Velma Jane Lao stated that the project will span one year, with eight months dedicated to the study and four months for finalization. An inception report is expected in six to eight weeks, with an initial draft available after eight months and the complete study finalized after a year.

The contract signing was attended by representatives from the Metro Iloilo municipalities and Guimaras, along with Sweco Project Transportation Engineer Dejan Pijetlovic.